In this thought-provoking anthology, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum has partnered with the Prix Pictet, the world’s leading prize for photography and sustainability, to show a different side to humanitarian photography. Co-editors William A. Ewing and Elisa Rusca decided to select thirty photographers from the 3,000 or so artists who have been nominated since the award was founded in 2008.

Adopting a broad definition of humanitarian photography, they looked for work with a visible humanitarian impulse and attributes such as care, dignity and empathy. The result is a diverse, stimulating and, at times, surprising visual display that is very different from the ‘breaking news’ images we often associate with humanitarian action. What sets these photographs apart? An unerring sense of compassion.

This compelling collection underlines the power of contemporary photography to move us and inspire positive change in the world.